A Guide to Visiting Disney in October – 2022 Spectacular

Last updated on October 23rd, 2022 at 12:43 pm

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Any time to visit Walt Disney World is going to be an exciting experience as it truly is the most magical place on Earth. However, there are times throughout the year when Disney World amps up the ante and makes the theme parks even more spectacular… or Spooktacular if you are visiting Disney in October.

Here is my guide to going to Disney World in October

Is October a good time to go to Disney World?

Many people do argue that October is the best time to visit Walt Disney World and that it’s even more magical than visiting at Christmas. They certainly do have credit to their argument though as the parks are transformed into an autumnal festival around the end of August and it gives a whole new meaning the pumpkin spice.

First of all, there is Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party which, of course, makes it perfect for children to enjoy and really get into the spirit of Halloween. Secondly, there are plenty of spooky Disney twists within the parks that provide an eeriness that would do the ghosts of The Haunted Mansion proud. Even the food options available become a little more Halloween-esque.

So, yes, October is indeed a good time to go to Disney World but you need to book early! These events get sold out fast so if you haven’t booked for 2022 but want to experience Disney in October, I would certainly start thinking about planning and booking for 2023 now.

What is going on at Disney World October 2022?

As we now know, the place to be is Disney in October.

There are so many exciting changes that happen during Spooky season at Walt Disney World. Even if you visit in September, you will be able to revel in the excitement of Halloween at Disney World. It’s not just the parks that get decorated but the merchandise and snacks available are also suitable for this time of year.

Get into the Halloween Spirit

Children (and adults) are encouraged to dress up as their favourite spooky Disney characters to really encapsulate the magic of Halloween at Disney World.

From Sleeping Beauty’s Maleficent to Toy Story’s Sid to Snow White’s old hag, the possibilities are endless. With the buzz of the new Hocus Pocus 2 movie, you may even wish to dress as one of the Sanderson Sisters.

Check out Joyfy to find 50% off children’s Halloween costumes.

Whoever you wish to dress as, and even if you don’t, you’ll be greeted by many of the well-loved characters within the park. Similarly to the secret of wearing one of the celebration badges, you can garner more interaction from the characters if you dress up.

You can read my list of hidden Disney World secrets here.

Parades and Displays

Walt Disney World never fails to entertain with their displays and parades. I’ve cried at both the 3pm Main Street parade at Magic Kingdom and the Fantasmic show at Hollywood Studios. Even the fireworks display at Magic Kingdom got me choked up as soon as I heard Hercules’ ‘Go The Distance’ playing from Cinderella’s castle.

Disney in October provides some special parades and displays as part of their ‘Not So Scary Halloween Party’ that will have you mesmerised and watching in awe.

Mickey’s ‘Boo To You’ parade is a twenty minute Halloween evening parade that is filled with your favourite Disney villains as well as your favourite characters dressed for the occasion.

The ‘Not So Spooky Spectacular’ fireworks display is hosted by Jack Skellington from The Nightmare Before Christmas and you will be the envy of all your friends when you tell them that you’ve witnessed this. There are also special visits from other well-loved Disney characters.

For the younger visitors, you can watch stories come to life during the Disney Junior Jam show.

The Sanderson Sisters will bedazzle visitors in their ‘Hocus Pocus Villain Spelltacular’ at Magic Kingdom, a treat only available if you do Disney in October.

Trick or Treat

Who doesn’t crave a Disney sugar rush?

As you explore the different lands at Magic Kingdom, you can really capture the Halloween magic as you search for candy around the park.

Do you have an allergy? No problem! Just make sure you mention this upon entering the park and you will receive a teal-coloured trick or treat bag and you will receive tokens which you can later redeem. This way, you will not miss out on the fun of trick or treating.

Additionally, Walt Disney World caters for food allergies at its different eateries. Just make sure that you mention this when booking. As a coeliac, I was blown away by the food available at the different restaurants within the parks. The snacks available aren’t as suitable but there are still some to choose from, including the Halloween-themed candy apples.

Things to do in Disney in October

This October is extra special at Walt Disney World as 2022 is the 50th anniversary for the park so, if you’re lucky enough to be going this year, you will certainly be privy to some of the one-off spectacular events.

However, every year, Disney in October is filled with special Halloween-themed perks so even if you’re heading there after the 50th anniversary, you’ll still be part of the magic and most have been introduced this year, rather than just being available in 2022.

Halloween Photo Opportunities

It’s always a pleasure having a photo taken with the characters. My husband thought I was mad when I encouraged him to queue to have a photo with Snow White. However, he quickly learned that this is actually one of the most special features of Walt Disney World.

The characters are just absolutely wonderful and the actors never break character. This is particularly magical for young children who do not recognise them as actors but it’s also incredible for teenagers and adults too as the characters are extremely entertaining.

During Disney in October, and as part of the Not So Scary Halloween Party, many of the photo opportunities are interactive, encouraging visitors to strike a pose with their favourite characters.

Disney’s Not So Spooky Spectacular Dessert Party

Again, you need to get in quick if you wish to book a dining experience with a special view.

All of the Walt Disney World restaurants offer incredible dining experiences, such as the ‘Be Our Guest’ restaurant (make sure you try the grey stuff! It’s delicious!) or the Cinderella’s Royal Table. They also cater for allergens too!

However, Disney’s Not So Spooky Spectacular Dessert Party dining experiences are available for speciality viewing of the firework displays. These are available in Tomorrowland and at the Plaza Garden.

Awesome Attractions

Apart from being a magical world that allows you to escape the real one, Walt Disney World is particularly known for its incredible attractions that are suitable for all ages. Whether you’re a thrill-seeker who enjoys a rollercoaster or more inclined to spin on the Mad Hatter’s teacups, there is just something for everybody.

Disney in October is the perfect time to visit if you wish to experience the spooky additions to the attractions available. Look out for those rides that have an additional Halloween twist.

Are there Disney World crowds in October?

Yes! As these events get snapped up quickly, there are bound to be crowds at Walt Disney World. During term time (when children are at school) the Disney World crowds may not seem as heavy but during special events like Mickey’s Not So Spooky Halloween Party, the parks will be at their busiest.

This is when it may be best to consider booking into a Disney hotel as the additional perks for the parks will give you a greater advantage compared to those staying elsewhere in Florida. In particular, the extra magic hours give you additional time to spend in the parks after others go home or back to their holiday accommodation. This doesn’t necessarily help with the Disney World crowds during the parades and displays but will certainly help with accessing the attractions.

When does Disney decorate for Halloween?

Walt Disney World begins decorating it’s parks for Halloween around the end of August. You will be able to spy lots of pumpkins, autumnal wreaths and spooky characters popping up but the actual parades and displays don’t commence until October.

Whenever you choose to visit Walt Disney World, whether it be February, June or Disney in October, you are guaranteed to have an incredibly magical time.

If you’re searching for a resort more suited to adults, check out my list of the best Disney resorts.

Happy Halloween!

Loulabella xoxo